a fresh concept to dining

For a bit of a change, my family decided to buy each other the 'progressive dining experience' at The InterContinental Sydney. It was exclusively on offer through Lime&Tonic during Sydney's Good Food Month and we, luckily, snapped up three vouchers. Hands down one of the best nights, experiences and Christmas presents we've ever had.

The culinary journey takes place in the stunning five star hotel, where Executive Chef Tamas Pamer takes us through his seasonal three-course menu in three different restaurants. Starting in the private room at the 'Cortile Lounge', we were greeted with a glass of Bimbadgen sparkling wine by the most incredible and friendly staff one would expect at such a venue. Our entree of Tasmanian Ocean Trout with baby summer vegetables, stone fruits, seaweed, pepe saya and buttermilk was well and truly beyond expectations. Incredibly fresh and very seasonal; the flavours, textures and presentation were second to none.

We took the heritage-listed elevator up to the second floor (we didn't really need to take the lift, but how could we say no!?) to our next venue 'One One Seven'. We were escorted to our private booth where our glass of Moppity Brothers At Large Shiraz was waiting for us. It didn't take long for the crowd-favourite to come out... Marble Score II Wagyu with shitake, black sesame cake, slow cooked short rib, darling mills' leaves and sunchoke. One word. Delectable.

We also had our peach jasmine sorbet palate cleanser here. Let me tell you... I have never in my life seen such a show-stopping, extravagant affair for such a meal. Dry ingredients + liquid hydrogen + sorbet + mortar & pestle = the most incredible palate cleanser EVER. The bar is well and truly raised...

We had to get buzzed up to the decadent 'Club InterContinental Lounge' located on level 33, where incomparable and absolutely breathtaking views of Sydney Harbour can be seen. From the astonishing view to the awe-inspiring dessert... we were literally lost for words. We had the Fairy floss, chestnut cream, cassis, shortbread, french meringue & vanilla chantilly delight, however I'll let the photos do the talking!

Such an extraordinary dining experience, and we will definitely be buying this experience should it be on again in 2015. And if it is, I highly recommend you buy as many vouchers as possible!

Restaurant: InterContinental Sydney
Total price: Approx. $600 (for 6ppl, including wine)
Hours: Various hours of operation for each restaurant. Please refer to their website
Must order: The entire experience! (but our favourite was the Marble Score II Wagyu)